The college basketball landscape is being reshaped by an elite group of first-year athletes who have wasted no time making their presence felt. These freshmen are putting up massive numbers, dominating both ends of the floor, and showing why they were among the most coveted recruits in their class. Their performances have not only lifted their respective teams but have also set the stage for potential NBA futures.
As March Madness approaches, these young stars are proving that they are more than just promising prospects—they are immediate difference-makers.
Cooper Flagg – Duke’s Phenomenon
Cooper Flagg wasn't even born the last time Duke controlled the Atlantic Coast Conference as it has this season. Now, the 18-year-old freshman is leading the second-ranked Blue Devils (19-2, 11-0 ACC) toward a historic conference run, aiming for their first 12-0 start in ACC play since the 2005-06 season.
Flagg came into NCAA Basketball already heralded as the likely No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and he has lived up to that billing with an impressive stat line. He leads the ACC in conference play scoring with 23.3 points per game, ranking ninth in rebounding at 7.3 boards per contest.
Flagg’s versatility is evident as he leads Duke in five major categories—points (20 per game), rebounds (eight), assists (4.2), steals (1.5), and blocked shots (1.2)—making him an all-around force. On the defensive side, he is the anchor of a Blue Devils squad that ranks among the nation’s best, allowing just 60.0 points per game (5th in the NCAA) while holding opponents to 37.7% shooting (6th in the country).
He continued his dominance in a marquee matchup against North Carolina, where he posted three steals and two blocks in an 87-70 victory over Duke’s biggest rival.
Cooper Flagg has quickly established himself as one of the top freshmen in NCAA Basketball, making an immediate impact for Duke University with his elite defense, scoring ability, and all-around versatility.
For fans looking to see him perform on the national stage, he is set to face off against the Virginia Cavaliers on ESPN on February 17, in what promises to be a high-stakes ACC showdown.
Virginia Cavaliers fans can check out Virginia sportsbooks for odds and insights ahead of the matchup, as Flagg looks to continue his dominance against one of the nation’s top defensive teams.
Dylan Harper – Rutgers’ Dynamic Playmaker
Dylan Harper arrived at Rutgers as one of the most polished offensive players in his class, and he has wasted no time proving why. The left-handed combo guard is averaging 18.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while logging 31.4 minutes per contest across 19 games, starting in 18 of them.
Harper's size and physicality give him a significant advantage in the backcourt. At 6-foot-5, he has long arms and a sturdy build that allows him to finish through contact and impact the game at multiple levels. His ability to create for himself and others has made him the engine of the Rutgers offense.
Harper’s adaptability makes him a lethal weapon. Whether as a primary ball-handler in Rutgers’ system or playing off the ball, his instincts and ability to read defenses make him a threat every time he steps on the court. His strong performances in the EYBL and with USA Basketball’s U19 team further highlight his ability to thrive in different systems.
Kasparas Jakučionis – Illinois’ Rising Star
Standing at 6-foot-6, Kasparas Jakučionis has made an immediate impact at Illinois, showcasing elite vision and playmaking ability. The freshman from Lithuania has been a floor general for the Fighting Illini, averaging 15.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.5 assists across 20 starts this season.
Jakucionis’ passing ability is second to none among freshmen. He has a natural instinct for finding teammates, threading passes from all angles, and creating high-percentage scoring opportunities. His ability to penetrate and distribute makes him one of the most exciting playmakers in the NCAA.
Tre Johnson – Texas’ Scoring Machine
Tre Johnson has been one of the most lethal scoring freshmen in the nation, averaging 19 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 20 games for Texas. His ability to get buckets in multiple ways has made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
Johnson thrives in open space and can create his own shot effortlessly. He is a smooth shooter off the dribble, effective in isolation situations, and has the ability to score in the post against smaller defenders. His polished offensive game makes him one of the most difficult covers in NCAA Basketball.
Derik Queen – Maryland’s Interior Dominance
Derik Queen has built a reputation as an elite rebounder and low-post presence. He is averaging 15 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2 assists across 22 games this season. His soft hands allow him to control difficult passes and finish around the rim with ease.
Unlike many big men who rely on sheer athleticism, Queen’s game is built around finesse and skill. He possesses great touch around the basket, is a solid ball-handler for a player his size, and has developed into a strong interior scorer.
These freshmen have already altered the landscape of NCAA Basketball, proving that they are more than just future NBA prospects—they are stars in the making right now. With their contributions shaping their teams’ success, expect them to be major factors come March Madness and beyond.
